2007 Toyota Avalon Review: Interior

The front seats are firm but not hard and relatively flat. They're quite comfortable and feature power adjustments and optional memory functions. In addition to heated front seats, the Limited model features a fan in the seat cushion and seatback that blows cabin air through the perforated leather trim to improve comfort. Knobs for seat heating and cooling are conveniently located on the center console. The front of the driver's seat bottom is power adjustable, offering improved thigh support. And the steering column tilts and telescopes. In short, these seats will not permit any form of discomfort, no matter what the conditions. They provide an apt analogy for the entire car, a vehicle possessed of small comforts that add up to a satisfying environment to soothe the driver.

The Optitron instruments are elegant and technically appealing displays, round in shape but unmistakably advanced. Retracting lids hide controls for audio and navigation, reducing clutter. The action of the retracting covers is slow and measured, with the look and satisfying feel of high-end audio equipment. These covers and panels are silver-painted plastic, following a trend started by Lincoln, Nissan and others. We wonder how good they'll look in five years. And some other trim pieces, such as the housing for the steering column, show this isn't an expensive luxury car. In the Limited model, however, this is offset by a handsome steering wheel trimmed in wood and leather. Overall, Avalon's interior feels upmarket and high quality. Wood accents, particularly on the Limited, are attractive and judiciously placed. The chrome door scuff plates on the Touring grade, particularly, are notably attractive and distinctive.